HMCS Athabaskan leaves Halifax bound for Haiti. (CBC)

The frigate HMCS Halifax and the destroyer HMCS Athabaskan steamed out of Halifax harbour Thursday afternoon bound for earthquake-ravaged Haiti.

Defence Minister Peter MacKay joined family members at HMC Dockyard to see the two ships and 500 crewmembers off on the humanitarian mission.

"You're experienced sailors and your work is exceptional because of your personal commitment," MacKay said before the two ships cast off.

"I wish you God speed and good luck. You're going to arrive in Haiti at a time when they're in great need, in peril, in dire need of your assistance. Your preparations will serve you well when you get to Haiti."

Both ships were loaded overnight Wednesday with first-aid kits, a Sea King helicopter and other supplies and equipment such as power generators, chainsaws and the Jaws of Life.

The two ships are expected to arrive in Haiti on Monday, but there may be a stop at an American port to load up with fuel and extra supplies before heading into the Haitian capital of Port-au-Prince.

The ship's company on HMCS Halifax have also started their own toy and clothing drive and crewmembers have each donated $2 to the cause.

A crewmember went shopping at a Wal-Mart in Dartmouth for toys and clothing, and the store chipped in $7,000 in clothing and food to take to Haiti.

The death toll from Tuesday's 7.0-magnitude quake is unclear, but the Red Cross estimates it could be over 50,000.